Stages of Development
Neonatal Period: Birth to 12 Days
Breeder provides warm environment. Dr. Michael Fox conducted a study showing
mildly stressing puppies during the first five weeks develops dogs which are
superior when put in learning or competitive situations. They are better able to
handle stress, are more outgoing and learn more quickly. Mild physical stress at
an early age will actually increase the size of the brain.
Transitional Period: 13 to 20 Days
This is the time to introduce novel stimuli to the whelping box such as a
plastic milk bottle, knotted towel, cardboard box, etc. This is also a time to
introduce puppies to friendly cats. It is important to continue picking up the
pups daily, admire them, talk to them, and spend a few minutes with each one
individually. Eyes open, puppy can hear, begins to walk in a wobbly fashion.
They will begin to hear and will respond to taste and smell.
Awareness Period: 21 to 23 Days
It is a time of very rapid sensory development. A stable environment is crucial.
It is important not to overload them. Radical changes in the environment must be
avoided, i.e. do not move the whelping box! It is essential that the puppy
remain with the litter and the mother. Each day introduce a new surface such as
concrete, linoleum, wood, carpet, matting, etc. Taking them two at a time will
make it less stressful than one at a time. Very mild auditory stimuli is
introduced, such as a radio playing quietly. This is when learning begins.
Socialization Period: Primary 3 to 5 Weeks, Secondary is 6 to 12 Weeks
Puppies require plenty of playtime with littermates, so they can socialize.
Leaving the litter before 7 weeks can affect the puppy's ability to get along
with other dogs later and they will likely have trouble learning to inhibit the
force of their bite. Put an open crate in the puppy pen. Clear distinction
between sleep and play area should be made. This ensures the puppy can leave his
sleeping area to eliminate. This will make housetraining later much easier. Each
puppy should have one-on-one individual attention with humans. Take two at a
time for short car rides. Occasionally isolate puppies to prepare them for
separation. Puppy's rate of mental development will now depend on the complexity
of their environment. Exposure to a variety of noises and different floor
surfaces is important. Begin positive training sessions at 5 weeks.
Human Socialization: 7 to 12 Weeks
Best time to bring a puppy into its new home is around week 7or 8. "The 49th
day" is recommended by Guide Dog raisers and supported by studies. Absolutely
critical period in which puppy should be socialized - maximize this time! Enroll
in a good puppy class! Ideal time to capitalize on educating your puppy. Take
into account puppy's physical limitations and short attention span.
Fear Imprint Period: 8 to 11 Weeks
Keep training fun. Use short sessions, and keep all training positive. Gentle
guidance and management are essential. Set your puppy up to succeed. This kind
of mindset will enable you to be successful, as you continue to socialize your
puppy. Puppies should not be shipped during this period, elective surgery should
be put off until the 12th week, and necessary visits to the vet should be made
fun. Anything that frightens the puppy now will have a more lasting effect than
if it occurred at any other time.
Flight Instinct Period: 4 to 8 Months
It is because of this stage that prevention over cure is advocated -- you must
start socializing and training before now! When you notice a change in your dog
during this time, he is probably going through his "flight instinct" period.
Like a teenager going through puberty, your puppy is changing physiologically.
Your awareness of these changes in behavior will help get you through this
commonly difficult period. This is the time when obedience schools get most of
their calls. Puppies that have not been socialized and worked with take a
different path in life than pups that have. Be prepared with appropriate chew
bones (large enough so that the pup will not choke) to help with your pup's need
to chew. Use a long line in the park if your pup is not coming when called.
This stage can last from a few days to several weeks and can occur anytime
during this period. He may not come when called. He may not play fetch even
though he once did. He will be uncomfortable because his adult teeth are growing
in. Even if you have done your homework it does not mean your puppy won't go
through this - just be aware of it and ride it out. Just keep your pup on a
leash until this passes.
Second Fear Period: 6 to 14 Months
Corresponds with growth spurts. Therefore it may happen more than once as the
puppy matures. May suddenly be apprehensive about new things or shy or timid of
new people or situations. Most of height growing is over, but pup will start to
fill out over the coming year. Puppy begins to mature sexually: male begins to
lift leg, and female has first heat period anywhere from 6-12 months. Puppy coat
being replaced by adult coat, starting down the spine. Many dogs will show a
rise in their level of aggression (reactivity) during this time. They may become
protective and territorial.
Maturity: 1 to 4 Years
Until this period has been reached, it is recommended that your pup remains
crated or the equivalent (structure) when you are not available to supervise his
behavior. You will know when your dog can be trusted by testing him for short
periods (10-15 minutes) while you leave the house. If your dog is damaging
property while loose, he is not ready.
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Frequently Asked
Questions -
Stages of Development
Coming soon.
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Green Paws Training Options
We absolutely love puppies, mostly because they're cute but also because we have
the opportunity to prevent bad dog behavior from ever happening with them.
How wonderful! To accomplish this we offer
Puppy Manners Class, Puppy
Playgroups,
New Owner Consultations and
Free Puppy Seminars every other
week. We also offer our premium
Green Puppy Academy!
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Books and Tools
Before and After
Getting Your Puppy By Ian Dunbar
Crate Padding and Blankets at
www.petdreams.com
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